Any sexual behavior between a therapist and a client can be considered sexual abuse. This includes physical acts such as having sexual intercourse, as well as verbal acts like making sexual comments. It also includes creating a sexual relationship under the guise of therapy.
Because of the power and trust involved in the therapist-client relationship, any sexual contact can be considered unethical and harmful, even if you may believe that you consent. A Columbus therapist sexual abuse lawyer will review your legal options for compensation.
Therapy Never Includes Sexual Behavior
Sexual abuse by a therapist happens when a therapist crosses professional boundaries and engages in any sexual behavior with a client. Therapy is a safe space meant for healing, support, and trust. It never includes sexual behavior of any kind.
A therapist must always maintain clear, professional boundaries. If a therapist acts in a sexual way, it is a serious violation of ethics, as per the Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct, and the law, no matter the circumstances.
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Types of Sexual Abuse by a Therapist
Any type of sexual behavior by a therapist toward a client can be considered sexual abuse. If you are not sure whether you fell victim to sexual abuse by your therapist, consult a sexual abuse attorney. They will listen to your account and determine if you have a valid case.
Types of sexual abuse by a therapist include:
- Sexual touching or contact: Any physical sexual behavior, such as hugging in a sexual manner, fondling, or intercourse, is a clear violation of professional boundaries and is considered abuse.
- Sexual comments or conversations: Making suggestive remarks, asking inappropriate sexual questions, or discussing the therapist’s own sexual experiences with a client can be abusive and unprofessional.
- Romantic or sexual relationships: Starting or pursuing a romantic or sexual relationship with a client is considered unethical, even if it appears consensual. The power imbalance makes true consent impossible.
- Exposing the client to sexual content: Showing pornographic material or talking about sexual topics without a clinical reason, especially in a way that makes the client uncomfortable, is a form of abuse.
- Using therapy to groom the client: Slowly breaking boundaries to manipulate the client into a sexual relationship (such as giving special attention, isolating them, or blurring professional lines) is a form of grooming and abuse.
- Digital or written sexual communication: Sending sexually suggestive texts, emails, or social media messages is a form of sexual abuse, even if there is no in-person contact.
Why Can a Consensual Relationship be Considered Therapist Abuse?
A relationship between a therapist and a client is never truly equal. The therapist holds a position of power and trust, and the client is often in a vulnerable state.
Because of this imbalance, what may seem like a “consensual” relationship is not truly based on free choice. Therapists are trained to maintain professional boundaries and protect their clients’ well-being.
Entering into a romantic or sexual relationship takes advantage of the client’s trust and can cause serious emotional harm. That’s why any sexual relationship between a therapist and a client is considered unethical, abusive, and often illegal, even if the client agrees to it at the time.
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The Early Warning Signs of an Unethical Therapist
Many people trust their therapists completely, so it can be hard to tell when something isn’t right. But therapy should always be a safe, respectful, and professional space. If it doesn’t feel that way, something may be wrong.
Red flags that you may have an unethical therapist include:
- Initiates inappropriate physical contact
- Encourages secrecy
- Prompts overly personal conversations unrelated to therapy
- Blames you or makes you feel responsible for their feelings
Therapists are meant to support your healing, not cause harm. If you notice any behavior that feels wrong, uncomfortable, or crosses professional boundaries, take it seriously. You deserve to feel safe and respected during therapy.
Trust your instincts; if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Talk to someone you trust, consider reporting the behavior, and know that support is available to you. You are not alone, and help is out there to guide you through the next steps.
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What You Should Do if You Suffered Sexual Abuse by Your Therapist
If your therapist sexually abused you, know that it’s not your fault. You placed your trust in someone who was supposed to help you, and they took advantage of that trust. You have the right to speak up and seek help.
First, consider speaking with someone you trust, such as a friend, family member, or another mental health professional. You can also report the abuse to the therapist’s licensing board, which can investigate and take action. In many cases, you may also file a legal claim for the harm you suffered.
A lawyer who understands therapist abuse can guide you through the process and protect your rights. Get the emotional support you need; there are people and resources available to help you heal.
A Therapist Sexual Abuse Lawyer Can Empower You to Fight for Justice
Recovery begins by acknowledging the abuse and getting help. Pursuing legal action isn’t only about going to court; it’s about standing up for yourself and making your voice heard. A sexual abuse attorney from Cooper Elliott will stand by your side, offering guidance with compassion and determination.
For more than three decades, our firm has supported survivors of therapist abuse, backed by over a century of combined experience in seeking justice from abusers and the institutions that failed to stop them.
Whether the abuse occurred during childhood or adulthood, we are here to fight for the outcome you deserve. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation.
Call or text 614-481-6000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
